10 December, 2024In the light of the protests in recent weeks in Georgia, IndustriALL Global Union calls on the government of Georgia to respect the people’s rights of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.
The protests in Georgia were ignited by the government's decision to halt European Union accession talks until 2028. The move has been perceived by many Georgians as a significant setback to the country's aspirations for European integration, leading to widespread demonstrations.
Says IndustriALL general secretary Atle Høie:
“The excessive force used against people protesting the decision stand in stark contrast against principles of democracy and human rights. IndustriALL stands in solidarity with our Georgian affiliates advocating for their rights, and we call on the Georgian government to engage in genuine dialogue with civil society to address the people’s legitimate aspirations.”
The Georgian Trade Unions Confederation (GTUC), which counts IndustriALL affiliated unions among their members, says that there is no alternative to the European integration, and
“categorically condemn the obvious excess of force by the law enforcement agencies, which was manifested in the violation of rights of media representatives and protest participants, including physical violence. We believe that each perpetrator and all responsible persons must be immediately identified and held accountable.”
Says industriALL Europe general secretary Judith Kirton-Darling:
“The scenes we are witnessing of police brutality and state repression of peace protests are reprehensible. The crisis can only be resolved through dialogue, including with civil society. The Georgian people have the right to live in a country that respects and embodies democratic values, human rights and the rule of law."